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It is worth stating that in neither case does it function without a relevant item selected.

Meaning with the graph design toolbar, it would be visible, but do absolutely nothing until a graph is selected. With the Ribben it appears when the graph is selected.

I don't see how a disabled toolbar, with no clue how to enable it, helps with user training or clarity.

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The disabled toolbar is easier because it still gives context and confidence you are looking in the right place.

'This is what I want...hmm...how do I make it work?' is a far easier process than 'I can't find what I want...where on earth is it?..does it even exist?'

And that waste of screen real estate necessitates other design tradeoffs that are more sub optimal than the ribbon.

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